ORLANDO – Jared Allen took a couple extra days to make his next big career decision, and on Wednesday morning he pulled off one of the biggest surprises of the offseason when he agreed to a four-year contract with the Chicago Bears.

Allen, the star defensive end whose contract with the Minnesota Vikings expired after last season, had well-publicized free agents visits with the Dallas Cowboys and Seattle Seahawks before winding up with the Bears.

Allen's move from Minnesota to Chicago is another major move within the NFC North after former Chicago defensive end Julius Peppers signed with the Green Bay Packers, and a sign the Bears are serious about upgraded their pass rush.

The Bears signed former Raiders defensive end Lamarr Houston and former Lions end Willie Young earlier this month, and appear to be trying to put together a deep group of defenders that can each play a variety of roles along the defensive line.

"We believe he's going to come in hungry & excited to be part of our football team, & we believe he'll fit right in," Marc Trestman said in a statement as the team announced Allen's deal.

The agreement came just minutes after NFC coaches, including Trestman, concluded an hour-long interview session at the NFL's annual meetings in Orlando.